Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer futuristic novelties — they are mainstream choices for Indian commuters, families, and daily drivers. But one question still tops every buyer’s list before choosing an EV:
“How far will it really go on a single charge?”
Unlike conventional petrol or diesel cars that quote mileage in km/l, EVs use range (in kilometres) — how many kilometres you can drive before needing a recharge. However, official range figures rarely tell the whole story. What matters most is the real-world on-road range — the actual distance you can drive under everyday conditions in India.
In this detailed guide, we break down:
- How EV range is measured
- Why real range differs from claimed figures
- On-road range of popular EVs in India
- Tips to maximize range
- What to expect in 2026
Let’s jump in.
⚡ How EV Range Is Measured
Most manufacturers quote range based on standardized testing cycles set by authorities. In India, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) certifies EV range using lab tests that estimate how far an EV can travel under controlled conditions.
However, laboratory range figures rarely match real on-road numbers because lab tests:
✔ Are conducted at constant speeds
✔ Use ideal temperatures
✔ Don’t simulate real traffic
✔ Don’t include accessory load (AC, music, lights)
So while the ARAI range gives a useful baseline, your actual on-road range will usually be lower — sometimes significantly so.
🔋 What Factors Influence Real EV Range?
Several real-world conditions affect how far an EV can actually go on a single charge:
🔹 Driving Speed
Faster speeds drain energy faster. Highway cruising reduces range significantly compared to city driving.
🔹 Traffic Conditions
Stop-and-go city traffic can be inefficient without regen braking. EVs with stronger regen recover energy better.
🔹 Air Conditioning Use
In hot climates (common in India), using AC reduces range. Extreme temperatures worsen this effect.
🔹 Driving Style
Aggressive acceleration and high speeds lead to rapid battery drain.
🔹 Terrain
Hills and gradients increase energy consumption compared to flat roads.
🔹 Loading & Accessories
Full passengers, cargo, infotainment, and lights add to the load and reduce range.
Understanding these variables helps set realistic expectations before making an EV purchase.
⚙️ India’s Real On-Road EV Range: Top Models Compared
Below is a snapshot of some of the most popular electric cars in India and what drivers typically experience in real-world conditions in 2026.
| EV Model | ARAI Claimed Range | Real On-Road Range | Driving Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tata Tiago EV | ~250 km | ~180–210 km | City/Highway Mix |
| Tata Tigor EV | ~315 km | ~230–260 km | City/Highway Mix |
| Tata Punch EV | ~265–365 km | ~200–300 km | City/Highway Mix |
| BYD Dolphin | ~285 km | ~210–250 km | Mostly City |
| Mahindra BE6 | ~557–682 km | ~440–520 km | Mixed Conditions |
Note: These real-world ranges are based on multiple field reports, owner surveys, and long-term usage estimates across Indian cities in 2025-26.
Tata Tiago EV — Great City Range
Claimed Range: ~250 km
Real On-Road Range: ~180–210 km
The Tiago EV is one of the most popular entry-level electric cars in India. In everyday conditions — city or mixed driving — many owners report:
- Good range in city traffic thanks to regenerative braking
- Range drops slightly on highways (90–100 km/h)
- AC use reduces range by ~10–15%
Verdict: Ideal for city commutes and short intercity trips.
🚙 Tata Tigor EV — Balanced Range for Daily Use
Claimed Range: ~315 km
Real On-Road Range: ~230–260 km
Tigor EV offers a higher claimed range and delivers a solid real-world figure. Most users experience:
- Excellent city range due to efficient regen braking
- Around 210–230 km on highways at 80–90 km/h
- AC use and faster speeds reduce range modestly
Verdict: One of the most practical EVs for daily use and occasional weekend drives.
🛡 Tata Punch EV — Compact with Big Range
Claimed Range: ~265–365 km
Real On-Road Range: ~200–300 km
Punch EV’s real range varies more due to different battery pack options:
- Lower battery packs still meet ~200 km comfortably
- Larger battery versions break ~260–300 km range in mixed conditions
- AC and higher speeds affect range but less dramatically
Verdict: Versatile for both urban and outstation trips.
🐬 BYD Dolphin — Premium Compact Performer
Claimed Range: ~285 km
Real On-Road Range: ~210–250 km
BYD Dolphin appeals to buyers who like premium feel and strong tech features:
- Close real range compared to claimed figures
- Efficient regen helps in city traffic
- A bit more range drop on highway runs
Verdict: Great all-round EV with a focus on comfort and tech.
🚐 Mahindra BE6 — Game-Changing Long Range
Claimed Range: ~557–682 km
Real On-Road Range: ~440–520 km
The Mahindra BE6 moves into long-range EV territory and delivers:
- Very good real range even with highway speeds
- Range sustained better due to bigger battery
- AC use and heavier loads still keep range competitive
Verdict: Ideal for long highway travel and larger families.
📊 Why Real Range Matters More Than ARAI Figures
Here’s a quick reminder of why real range can differ significantly from ARAI figures:
| Factor | ARAI Test | Real-World |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Controlled / low | Variable / high |
| Weather | Average | Extreme heat/cold |
| AC Use | Minimal | Frequent |
| Traffic | Uniform | Stop-go |
| Load | Minimal | Full passengers/Cargo |
Real on-road range is what drivers experience day-to-day, and it’s crucial to consider before buying.
🔋 Tips to Maximize EV Range in India
To get the best real-world range from any EV, follow these practical tips:
1. Use Regenerative Braking Efficiently
City driving with frequent braking can actually recover energy, extending range.
2. Moderate Your Speed
High speeds drain battery faster. Driving at a steady 60–80 km/h improves efficiency.
3. Manage Air Conditioning Smartly
AC is a big range killer. Use eco modes or fan settings in mild weather.
4. Precondition the Cabin
If you can cool or warm the car while plugged in, it saves energy later.
5. Avoid Overloading
Extra weight reduces efficiency — travel only with what you need.
6. Check Tyre Pressure Regularly
Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance and reduce range.
These tips are especially useful for Indian city driving, where conditions vary widely.
⚠️ Common Misconceptions About EV Range
❌ “More claimed range means always better”
Not necessarily. If the EV is heavier and less efficient, real range can drop more.
❌ “Highway range is the same as city range”
Highway range is always lower due to higher speeds and continuous power demand.
❌ “Battery capacity alone determines range”
Battery size matters, but efficiency, aerodynamics, and motor tuning are equally important.
🔎 What to Expect in 2026 and Beyond
In 2026, several trends are shaping how EV range will evolve:
⚡ Wider EV Adoption
More Indian cities now support EV infrastructure, encouraging higher adoption.
⚡ Faster Charging Networks
Expansion of DC fast chargers means less range anxiety for long trips.
⚡ Improved Battery Tech
Newer battery chemistries promise better real-world efficiency and longer battery life.
⚡ Smarter Range Prediction
Advanced onboard range calculators adapt to driving style, terrain, and weather — giving more accurate real-time estimates.
This means future EV buyers will get better, more realistic range confidence.
📌 Final Thoughts
While claimed ARAI range figures give useful benchmarks, they are rarely the whole story. Whether you’re driving a Tata Tiago EV, Tigor EV, BYD Dolphin, or a long-range BE6, the real on-road range will always depend on your driving style, conditions, and usage patterns.
In 2026, Indian EVs continue to deliver practical city ranges of 180–300 km and highway ranges exceeding 400 km for larger battery models.
If you’re planning to go electric, consider how you drive, where you drive, and what range will keep your daily life smooth and stress-free.